In a highly secretive meeting, Tehran has reportedly chosen Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, as his father's successor. The decision was taken during a secretive meeting of the Assembly of Experts, according to Iran International, which was cited by Israeli media outlet Ynet News. The report surfaced just hours after multiple social media posts on Saturday claimed that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, 85, is in a coma.
Who Is Mojtaba Khamenei?
Born in Mashhad in 1969, Mojtaba Khamenei plays a commanding role in the Office of the Supreme Leader and outside of the public view. He holds significant influence, similar to that of Ahmad Khomenei, the son of Iran's first Supreme Leader.
Mojtaba first caught public attention during the 2005 elections. Over time, he has enhanced his network of political figures which placed him as a power broker for his father. During elections Mehdi Karroubi alleged that Khamenei had used these connections to influence the outcome in Ahmadinejad’s favor.
Mojtaba later served in the armed forces during the Iran-Iraq War, where he established connections with key figures who would later play significant roles in Iran's security apparatus, including Hossein Taeb, future head of the IRGC Intelligence Organisation.
Will Khamenei's Son Mojtaba Take Over As New Supreme Leader?
Mojtaba Khamenei, the second son of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has reportedly been named as his father's successor. Claims began surfacing on social media on the heels of a report by the New York Times early in October which claimed that Ali Khamenei was "seriously ill." No official word from any sources regarding further deterioration of the Ayatollah's health has, however, been issued.
The secret meeting which was held on September 26, was reportedly convened at the request of the 85-year-old Supreme Leader, who is said to be facing severe health issues. Members of the 60-member assembly allegedly faced intense pressure, including threats from Khamenei and his representatives, to reach a unanimous decision.
According to the Iran International report, the decision was deliberately kept secret to prevent public backlash. "The assembly resolved to maintain maximum secrecy over the decision due to fears of widespread public protests," the report stated.